Hello, fabulous Living With Dana readers! Can you believe we’re already at Week 25 of our year-long journey to a cleaner, more organized, and stress-free home? Time flies when you’re decluttering and transforming your space one week at a time!
Week 25: Kitchen – Clean Small Appliances
- Clean the toaster, coffee maker, blender, etc.
- Wipe down the dishwasher inside and out.
- Clean the top of the refrigerator.
This week, we’re focusing on the heart of the home — the kitchen, specifically those small appliances that work hard every day but often get overlooked when it comes to cleaning. Think toaster, coffee maker, blender, and even the dishwasher and the top of your refrigerator. Ready to make these kitchen workhorses sparkle? Let’s dive in!
Why Clean Your Small Appliances?
Small appliances are kitchen MVPs, but they can harbor crumbs, coffee oils, and dust that affect performance and hygiene. Regular cleaning:
- Extends appliance lifespan
- Improves food taste and safety
- Keeps your kitchen smelling fresh
- Prevents pesky pests
Fun & Unique Life Hacks for Cleaning Small Appliances
1. Toaster TLC: The Crumb Catcher’s Best Friend
- Unplug your toaster and remove the crumb tray (if it has one).
- Shake out crumbs into the trash or compost.
- Use a soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush to sweep crumbs from the slots.
- Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth and a drop of dish soap.
Proctor Silex 4-Slice Toaster with Extra Wide Slots for Bagels, Cool-Touch Walls, Shade Selector, Toast Boost, Auto Shut-off and Cancel Button. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/43tnR0M
2 Pack Bamboo Toast Tongs, 10.2 Inches Long, with Anti-slip Design, good for Cooking with Oil. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/3ZxAWF8
2. Coffee Maker Magic: Descale with Vinegar
- Fill the reservoir halfway with equal parts white vinegar and water.
- Run a brew cycle without coffee grounds.
- Follow with two cycles of clean water to rinse.
- Wipe down the carafe and exterior with a microfiber cloth.
Keurig K-Express Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, 3 Brew Sizes, Strong Button Feature, 42oz Removable Reservoir. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/43LvWiF
Gloria Jean’s Raspberry Chocolate Lava, Single-Serve Keurig K-Cup Pods, Flavored Medium Roast Coffee, 24 Count. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/4jn9iBM
Coffee Maker Travel Bag Compatible with Keurig K-Slim, Keurig K-Supreme or Other Accessories, Portable Coffee Maker Case with Shoulder Strap for Travel. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/4jni9DM
Affiliate pick: Coffee Maker Cleaning Tablets make this process even easier and smell fresher!
3. Blender Blitz: Clean in Seconds
- Fill the blender jar halfway with warm water and a drop of dish soap.
- Secure the lid and blend on high for 30 seconds.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry.
NutriBullet Special Edition NutriBullet Pro 900 Watt Blender. I’ve been using my NutriBullet for over two years without any problems. Love it! I make a protein smoothie every morning. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/45p8etN
Bonus hack: Use a small brush to clean around the blades and gasket for a deep clean.
4. Dishwasher Detox
- Wipe down the door seals and edges with a damp cloth.
- Remove and clean the filter (check your manual).
- Run an empty cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or a cup of white vinegar on the top rack.
5. Fridge Top Dust-Off
- Pull out any items stored on top.
- Use a microfiber cloth or duster to remove dust and crumbs.
- For stubborn grime, a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap works wonders.
Must-Have Cleaning Tools (Affiliate Links)
Microfiber Cleaning Cloths — Soft, reusable, and perfect for delicate surfaces.
MagicFiber Microfiber Cleaning Cloth – 12 Pack, Large 13″ x13” Highly Absorbent Streak-Free Micro Fiber Cleaning Rags Towels for House, Car, Windows, Housekeeping, Household Dusting, Kitchen. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/4kmSZqs
Small Appliance Cleaning Brush Set — Get into those nooks and crannies!
Appliance cleaning tools, 12 pieces, Small Cleaning Brush, Crevice Gap Cleaning Brush, Door and Window Track Groove and Corner Crevice Cleaning Brushes for Cleaning Window Grooves/ Bathroom/ Toilet Corner/ Kitchen/ Faucet/ Sink/ Keyboards and more. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/4dEp9uC
Natural Dishwasher Cleaner — Keep your dishwasher fresh and efficient.
THE CLEAN PEOPLE Dishwasher Cleaner Tablets for Removing Limescale, Mineral Buildup, Grease & Odors – 10 Count, Citrus Scent. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/3FuwYGx
Multi-Purpose Spray Cleaner — Safe for all your kitchen appliances.
Method All-Purpose Cleaner Spray, French Lavender, Plant-Based and Biodegradable Formula Perfect for Most Counters, Tiles and More, 28 Fl Oz, (Pack of 4). Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/4brsKuL
Stay Connected & Keep the Momentum Going!
I love hearing from you! Share your Week 25 progress and your own unique cleaning hacks on my Facebook page. Don’t forget to favorite LivingWithDana.com so you can easily jump back in for new challenges and lifestyle inspiration — from fashion and pets to DIY projects, home maintenance, décor, recipes, health, and more.
While you’re here, sign up for my FREE weekly newsletter to get exclusive tips, sneak peeks of upcoming challenges, and special offers delivered right to your inbox. You won’t want to miss it!
Sneak Peek: Week 26 Challenge – Living Room Media Organization. Next week, we’re tackling your entertainment zone! Get ready to make your living room a clutter-free haven for relaxation and fun!
Thanks for being part of this journey with me. Let’s keep making our homes happier, healthier, and more organized — one week at a time!
Happy cleaning,
Dana
Blog = www.livingwithdana.com | Facebook
Note: Affiliate links help support this blog at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I trust and use myself!
If you missed any of the earlier challenges, be sure to check out the Challenge 2025 kick-off post, which lists all weekly challenges and links as they become available.
For your convenience, download free cleaning, organizing, and decluttering checklists to keep your progress on track:
BLOG POST with free checklists for each room
Also the master checklist for all 52 weeks:
Download the list here (click image):
Happy cleaning!
